italian pasta salad with homemade italian dressing

Author of this recipe: Brett Tarvis

"Try this easy Italian pasta salad recipe with homemade Italian dressing! Perfect for picnics, packed with fresh veggies, and bursting with flavor."

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Ingredients

• ### Ingredients for Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing
• #### **For the Pasta Salad:**
• - **Pasta**: 12 oz (340g) of **tri-color rotini pasta** or **penne pasta** (use gluten-free pasta if needed).
• - **Cherry Tomatoes**: 1 cup, halved (adds freshness and color).
• - **Cucumber**: 1 medium, diced (for crunch).
• - **Red Onion**: ½ cup, finely chopped (adds a zesty flavor).
• - **Black Olives**: ½ cup, sliced (classic Italian ingredient).
• - **Pepperoni**: ½ cup, sliced (optional, for a meaty twist).
• - **Mozzarella Cheese**: 1 cup, cubed (or use mini mozzarella balls).
• - **Fresh Basil**: ¼ cup, chopped (for a fragrant, herby touch).
• - **Parmesan Cheese**: ½ cup, grated (for a salty, nutty flavor).
• - **Bell Peppers**: 1 cup, diced (use a mix of red, yellow, and green for color).
• #### **For the Homemade Italian Dressing:**
• - **Extra Virgin Olive Oil**: ½ cup (use high-quality oil for the best flavor).
• - **Red Wine Vinegar**: ¼ cup (adds tanginess).
• - **Garlic**: 2 cloves, minced (for a bold, savory taste).
• - **Dijon Mustard**: 1 tsp (for creaminess and depth).
• - **Italian Seasoning**: 1 tbsp (a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary).
• - **Honey**: 1 tsp (balances the acidity).
• - **Salt**: ½ tsp (to taste).
• - **Black Pepper**: ¼ tsp (freshly ground for best flavor).
• - **Crushed Red Pepper Flakes**: ¼ tsp (optional, for a hint of spice).
• #### **Optional Add-Ins for Customization:**
• - **Artichoke Hearts**: ½ cup, chopped (for a Mediterranean twist).
• - **Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: ¼ cup, chopped (adds a sweet and tangy flavor).
• - **Chickpeas**: 1 cup, drained and rinsed (for extra protein).
• - **Spinach or Arugula**: 1 cup, fresh (for a green, leafy boost).
• This **Italian pasta salad** is perfect for **summer picnics**, **potlucks**, or as a **meal prep** option. The **homemade Italian dressing** is light, flavorful, and free from preservatives, making it a healthier choice. Customize with your favorite veggies and proteins for a **quick and easy** dish that’s sure to impress!

Steps

1. # How to Make Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing
3. Italian pasta salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal. This recipe combines al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Italian pasta salad that’s sure to impress.
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7. ## **Ingredients for Italian Pasta Salad**
8. - **For the Salad:**
9. - 12 oz (340g) pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle work best)
10. - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
11. - 1 cup cucumber, diced
12. - 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
13. - 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
14. - 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
15. - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
16. - 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
18. - **For the Homemade Italian Dressing:**
19. - 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
20. - 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
21. - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
22. - 1 garlic clove, minced
23. - 1 tsp dried oregano
24. - 1 tsp dried basil
25. - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
26. - Salt and black pepper to taste
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30. ## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
32. ### **1. Cook the Pasta**
33. - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
34. - Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
35. - Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
37. ### **2. Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese**
38. - While the pasta is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and black olives.
39. - Cube the mozzarella cheese and chop the fresh basil or parsley.
41. ### **3. Make the Homemade Italian Dressing**
42. - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes.
43. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Shake or whisk until well combined.
45. ### **4. Assemble the Italian Pasta Salad**
46. - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs.
47. - Pour the homemade Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
49. ### **5. Chill and Serve**
50. - Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
51. - Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
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55. ## **Tips for the Best Italian Pasta Salad**
56. - Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing for the best flavor.
57. - Add protein like grilled chicken, salami, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
58. - Customize the vegetables based on your preferences—artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers are great additions.
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62. ## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
63. This Italian pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser, packed with fresh ingredients and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, the homemade Italian dressing elevates the dish with its vibrant, authentic flavors.
65. Enjoy this delicious Italian pasta salad as a side dish or main course, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends!
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68. **Keywords:** Italian pasta salad, homemade Italian dressing, easy pasta salad recipe, fresh pasta salad, Italian salad dressing, potluck pasta salad, summer pasta salad, healthy pasta salad.

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